49ers vs. Chiefs: Preseason Week 1 Preview
Significant injuries
Even though training camp has just begun, the number of players hurt are starting to pile up for the 49ers. Here’s the breakdown of notable injuries:
- Linebacker Malcolm Smith (placed on IR) – Smith tore his pectoral muscle during last week’s practice, has been ruled out for the season.
- Cornerback Dontae Johnson (out for game) – Johnson suffered a concussion this week, and is being held out for today’s game.
- Safety Jimmie Ward (out indefinitely) – Ward hurt his hamstring during the conditioning test, and will be out for today’s game. Shanahan said he hopes to have Ward back by next week.
- Offensive lineman Joshua Garnett (out indefinitely) – Garnett injured his knee last week, and was supposed to have arthroscopic knee surgery on Thursday. The team is hoping for a Week 1 return.
- Tight end George Kittle (doubtful) – Kittle sustained hamstring strain last week, and while he did come back to practice this week, Shanahan doesn’t believe Kittle will play in today’s game.
- Safety Jaquiski Tartt (questionable) – Tartt went down with a rib injury last week after filling in for the hurt Ward, but returned to limited action a few days ago. His status has been listed as day-to-day.
- Linebacker Donavin Newsom (out indefinitely) – Newsom suffered the most frightening injury of the 49ers offseason when the rookie linebacker was rendered unconscious due to a concussion after a collision with teammate Chanceller James. Fortunately, Newsom was released from Stanford Medical Center on Thursday and is expected to rejoin the team soon.